Officials say Goffstown High ‘safe’ after threat of violence

GOFFSTOWN — Security at Goffstown High School was beefed up this week after violent threats were made against the school via social media.

Principal Francis J. McBride called an all-school assembly Wednesday to inform students that police had investigated the threats and they were determined not to be credible.

“There were some rumors going around that someone was going to shoot up the school,” said Schools Superintendent Stacy Buckley. “The assembly this morning was to assure all students that police had investigated and that Goffstown High is a safe place.”

In a letter sent home to parents, McBride said, “We have increased our level of security, and the Goffstown Police Department has provided additional resources to us in order to assure parents and students that we will always err on the side of caution in these situations.”

McBride said police had “thoroughly investigated every piece of information” pertaining to the threats. Police Chief Patrick Sullivan could not be reached for comment.

Students who did not want their names used said the threats were made by a freshman at the school who had apparently “disappeared” or “run away from home” last week, only to resurface on social media, where the threats were made.

Buckley said she did not think any charges were being brought against the individual or individuals who made the threats.

In his letter to parents, McBride said school staff was made aware of the threats by students and parents.

“Your continued willingness to share any and all concerns with us and school and law enforcement (including Goffstown, New Boston and Dunbarton police departments) makes everyone safer,” he wrote. “This information is always welcome and is absolutely encouraged.”

He said the police department would “remain vigilant to any present or future threats which may affect our school.”

A Greenville man who ran away from officers during a search was found a few hours later after a search involving a New Hampshire State Police helicopter, police said.

UPDATED 3/19 @ 2:40 am

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